Carbon monoxide is an odorless and poisonous gas that can become deadly when inhaled. Fuels not burning completely produce carbon monoxide and are dangerous when in enclosed areas. Fireplaces, ovens, furnaces, water heaters and cars running in an enclosed area are all examples of ways carbon monoxide is produced.
Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
There are ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Have heating systems and other appliances checked annually by a technician. It is especially important to monitor carbon monoxide during winter since many homes use additional appliances to produce heat. Further, warming up your vehicle while it is in the garage can be dangerous to your family. Ensure your garage door is open and able to ventilate before turning on any vehicles in the garage.
Carbon monoxide poisoning causes the treatment of over 50,000 people in the emergency room annually for different levels of exposure. Too much exposure can lead to death so make sure you get checked out immediately if you feel nauseous, dizzy or ill.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors are an inexpensive way to protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Alarms to measure carbon monoxide in the room should be placed lower in the room for faster detection since it is denser than air. If you have a multi-level home, ensure you place an alarm on each level of your home. If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, get out of the house immediately to get fresh air and contact 911.
Alarms have different beep rhythms based on the needs of the alarm, including early onset of detecting a leak. It is important to test alarms regularly and replace carbon monoxide alarms every five to seven years.
If you have suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, you may need to file a claim for your injuries.
Contact Merdes Law Office, P.C. to meet with our highly experienced Alaskan personal injury attorney to discuss your case: 907.452.5400 or visit www.merdes.com.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
